Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London,April 1፡2025 (Tigray Herald)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tigray Youth Network Demands Justice and Accountability in the Face of Rising Sexual Violence and Femicide
In response to the alarming increase in sexual violence and femicide against women, we, as civic organisations and concerned Tigrayans, stand united in demanding immediate action, accountability, and
justice. The escalating brutality against women is a national crisis that can no longer be ignored or tolerated.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives to gender-based violence. Their pain is immeasurable, and we honour their memories by continuing to fight for
justice. To the survivors, we stand with you in solidarity, recognising your immense strength and resilience.
You are not alone, and we will continue to push for a society that supports, protects, and empowers you. We call on every individual to offer their support, compassion, and advocacy in this struggle for justice and
equality. It is especially heartbreaking that many of these young women had already survived the horrific Tigray
genocide, only to be killed by their own people. This betrayal of their survival and resilience is a tragedy that demands urgent action.
We must acknowledge the systemic failure that has allowed such violence to persist
and work collectively to put an end to it.
Recent cases of violence against women serve as stark reminders of the deep-rooted impunity that allows perpetrators to continue their crimes unpunished. Every woman and girl deserves to live in a society free from
fear, violence, and oppression. We call upon all citizens, institutions, and leaders to rise and take decisive action to address this epidemic of violence.
Our Demands:
1. Justice for Victims: Immediate and thorough investigations into all cases of sexual violence and femicide, ensuring perpetrators are held accountable through fair and swift legal processes.
2. Government Action: The implementation of stronger policies and laws that prioritise the safety and rights of women, along with stricter enforcement of existing laws against gender-based violence.
3.Police and Judicial Reform: A transparent, victim-centred approach in handling cases of sexual violence,ensuring survivors receive proper support and that law enforcement takes all reports seriously.
4. Community Mobilisation: Encouraging all sectors of society to actively participate in awareness campaigns, education initiatives, and support networks for survivors and their families.As a society, we must also reject and denounce perpetrators, refusing to normalise or tolerate their actions in any form.
5. End to Cultural and Systemic Impunity: A commitment from community leaders, religious institutions,and stakeholders to dismantle the societal norms that enable gender-based violence and femicide.
We call on every Tigrayan, activist, politicians, and leader to take a stand. We must demand justice,accountability, and systemic change to protect the lives and dignity of women and girls in our society.
We urge the media, advocacy groups, and all individuals committed to human rights and care for the lives of Tigrayans to amplify this message and push for urgent and lasting reforms. Let us unite in our shared
responsibility to end violence against women and create a future where safety and justice are a reality for all.
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact: general@tigrayyouthnetwork.org
